How to Repair Termite Damage to Floors

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How to Repair Termite Damage to Floors

Overview

Repairs to floors damaged by termites can be a daunting prospect. However, if the damage to the floor structure is minimal, you can attempt the repairs yourself. With lumber, a hammer and nails and some time, you can save a significant amount of money.

Step 1

Remove top floorboards above any damaged subfloor pieces. If possible, attempt the repairs by crawling under your house or fix the damage from a basement order to preserve your interior floors.

Step 2

Disconnect any utilities or wires that may be near the damaged wood.

Step 3

Place a 2-by-4 floor joist as close to the termite-damaged floor joist as possible. Secure the new 2-by-4 by nailing it to the crossbeam base of the floor. This provides the structural support the damaged beam had been shouldering.

Tips and Warnings

If you remove lumber from the structure of the floor without replacing the support, you could do significant damage to the foundation of your home and put yourself in harm's way. If you are not sure how to replace floor joists, seek a professional's help.

Things You'll Need

2-by-4 wooden floor joists

Hammer

Nails

References

Ask the Builder: "Repairing Termite Damage"; Tim Carter

Keywords:
termite damage, wood termites, fixing floors

About this Author

Lacey Roop's articles have been printed in various print magazines such as "UpCountry" where she was a feature writer for four years. She has written pieces for "Bluegrass Now" where her work graced the cover on two occasions. Lacey has a BA in English and has been writing professionally since 2003.